Multi-modality medical image layout editor

ABSTRACT

A medical imaging system comprises one or more displays. A viewer device generates an interactive user interface screen on the display, which viewer device enables a user to simultaneously inspect selected image data of multiple patients or multiple images. A layout editor generates a layout editor user interface in the user interface screen, which layout editor device enables the user to create and/or modify a layout of the selected image data on the display.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/424,147 filed on Jun. 14, 2006 and entitled MULTI-MODALITY MEDICAL IMAGE VIEWING, which is fully incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present application relates to medical imaging systems and methods. It finds particular application in conjunction with multi-modality systems, such as PET-CT systems. It will be appreciated that the invention is also applicable to the various combinations of SPECT, CT, ultrasound, MRI, fluoroscopy, and the like.

BACKGROUND

In multi-modality tomographic systems, two or more different sensing modalities are used to locate or measure different constituents in the object space. In the PET-CT system, the PET creates images of high metabolic activity in the body, rather than creating images of surrounding anatomy. CT scans allow doctors to see the internal structures within the human body. Before having a PET-CT scan, the patient receives a dose of a radiopharmaceutical. The pharmaceutical is carried through the blood and concentrates in a particular organ or region and causes radiation to be emitted from the blood and this organ or region. During the scan, tracings of the emitted radiation are detected by the system creating an image of the distribution of the radiopharmaceutical in the patient. The image can show the circulatory system and/or the relative absorption of the radiopharmaceutical in various regions or organs. Integration of the anatomical data from the CT scan with the metabolic data from the PET scan in the PET-CT image gives physicians visual information to determine if disease is present, the location and extent of disease, and track how rapidly it is spreading. The PET-CT system is particularly helpful in difficult-to-treat regions (e.g. head and neck area, mediastinum, postsurgical abdomen) and localization of the treatment area for the patients receiving radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

As each medical imaging modality may provide complementary information on the imaged subject, it is desirable to combine all available information for review. There is a growing demand for a medical imaging review system to be able to handle multiple patients and multiple modalities over a temporally spaced series of imaging sessions. However, the current approach for viewing of the multiple patients is to load patients one at a time, which is cumbersome from a workflow standard point of view and also renders patient comparison difficult if not impossible.

Another problem arises in handling multiplicity of patients and modalities. One problem, for example, is the registration of images from multiple modalities or the same modality over multiple imaging sessions. Current methods allow handling of only few images with the assumption that the first volumetric image is fixed. Another problem is in providing support when conflicting requirements due to different needs exist. One approach is to provide customizable display protocols. However, the customizable display protocols make a tightly integrated viewing environment difficult to define and implement.

A challenge presented by multi-modality image viewing is the virtually endless possible display combinations for different image views and imaging modalities. These display combinations often include, accommodate, or otherwise share display space with data display areas. A collection and arrangement of image and data display areas is referred to as a layout.

Different physicians often have different preferred views for a given set of data. For example, one physician may prefer a single large image view while another physician may prefer a composite of smaller image views. Also, a particular physician may have different preferred views across different sets of data.

While a large number of predefined layouts could be provided in an effort to offer a layout matching each user's varied preferences, such an approach could substantially increase load time, as well as increase the difficulty in managing the layouts. Also, it is still possible that none of the provided layouts would correspond to the user's desired preferences.

Another approach is to provide the user with a layout editor. A layout editor is a utility that allows a layout to be created and/or an existing layout to be modified. Conventional layout editors generally work off-line (i.e., external to the image viewing application), whereby a user can load a layout and modify its attributes with or without graphical support. A limitation of conventional layout editors is that they do not provide direct feedback to the user as the user makes changes to a layout. That is, the viewing program must be left to access an editing program; the editing program used to make changes to the layout; and then the viewing program accessed again to observe the changes made to the layout. As a result, depending on the complexity of the layout, several iterations of the layout editing process may be necessary before the desired results are achieved. Thus, the editing time is often long and the learning curve is often steep with these off-line layout editors. Furthermore, extra time and/or resources are used to load data to verify the correctness of a layout design.

The present application provides new and improved systems and methods which also may address one or more of the above-referenced problems, challenges, limitations, and/or issues.

SUMMARY

In accordance with one aspect, a medical imaging system which comprises one or more displays is disclosed. A viewer device generates an interactive user interface screen on the display, which viewer device enables a user to simultaneously inspect selected image data of multiple patients or multiple images.

In accordance with another aspect, a medical imaging method is disclosed. An interactive user interface screen is generated on a display. Selected image data of multiple patients or multiple images is simultaneously inspected on the display.

One advantage is that multiple images can be simultaneously reviewed in a side to side comparison. Another advantage is that unlimited support of customer display protocols is provided. Another advantage resides in simplicity of image registration or alignment.

In accordance with yet another aspect, a medical imaging system which comprises one or more displays is disclosed. A viewer device generates an interactive user interface screen on the display, which viewer device enables a user to simultaneously inspect selected image data of multiple patients or multiple images. A layout editor device generates a layout editor user interface in the user interface screen on the display, which layout editor device enables the user to modify a layout of the selected image data on the display.

In accordance with still another aspect, a layout editor can interface with a medical imaging system that generates an interactive user interface screen on a display to allow a user to simultaneously inspect selected image data of multiple patients or multiple images. The layout editor includes a layout editor device operable to generate a layout editor user interface in the interactive user interface screen, which layout editor device enables the user to modify a layout of the selected image data on the display.

In accordance with another aspect, a medical imaging method is disclosed. An interactive user interface screen is generated on a display. A layout editor user interface is generated in the user interface screen on the display. A layout of selected image data is modified using the layout editor user interface. The selected image data is output to the display according to the layout.

One advantage is that an image display area is also used to create or otherwise modify a layout, without having to leave the image display environment. Another advantage is that viewers can be configured and a real-time preview of the current configuration of the viewer provided before the viewer is added to the layout. Still another advantage is that the layout design (e.g., tiles) can be adjusted (e.g., resized, repositioned) without removing existing viewers from the layout. Yet another advantage is the ability to define a layout for multiple monitors, even when multiple physical monitors are not currently available. Another advantage is the automatic linking among viewers added to the layout, for example, according to predefined linking policies.

Still further advantages and features will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments, from the claims and from the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may take form in various components and arrangements of components, and in various steps and arrangements of steps. The drawings are only for purposes of illustrating the preferred embodiments and are not to be construed as limiting the invention.

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of an imaging system;

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of a detailed portion of the imaging system;

FIG. 3 is an image of a user interface screen showing a layout;

FIG. 4 is an image of a user interface screen showing another layout;

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of another detailed portion of an imaging system;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a localization process;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart of a crude registration of comparison groups;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart of precise registration of comparison groups;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a registration reformatting which results in oblique reformatting;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart of a layout definition;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart of a layout selection;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart of converting the selecting layout to a viewing network;

FIG. 13 is a continuation of the flow chart of converting the selected layout to a viewing network;

FIG. 14 is an image of one of the layouts;

FIG. 15 is an image of a modified layout of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is an image showing the layout of FIG. 15 and a newly saved icon for this layout; and

FIG. 17 is a flow chart of control of oblique TSC display.

FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic illustration of a detailed portion of an imaging system, including a layout editor;

FIG. 19 is an image of a user interface screen showing a layout editor user interface;

FIG. 20 is an image of the user interface screen of FIG. 19 showing an image display area according to a layout;

FIG. 21 is an image of a configuration area of the layout editor user interface of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is an image showing modification of a tiling arrangement in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is an image showing modification of a tiling arrangement in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is an image showing configuration and previewing of a viewer in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is an image showing movement of the viewer from the configuration area to a layout design area in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is an image showing configuration and previewing of a viewer in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is an image showing movement of the viewer from the configuration area to a layout design area in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is an image showing configuration and previewing of a viewer in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is an image showing movement of the viewer from the configuration area to a layout design area in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is an image showing configuration and previewing of a viewer in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is an image showing movement of the viewer from the configuration area to a layout design area in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is an image showing closing of the configuration area in the layout editor user interface of FIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is an image showing a layout including a mixture of image viewers and numerical viewers;

FIG. 34 is an image showing display of first numerical data in the numerical viewers based on a first region of interest selected in the graphical viewers of FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is an image showing display of second numerical data in the numerical viewers based on a second region of interest selected in the graphical viewers of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a class diagram of logic used in implementing an exemplary layout editor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the general inventive concepts are susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will be described herein in detail specific embodiments thereof with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the general inventive concepts. Accordingly, the general inventive concepts are not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein.

With reference to FIG. 1, an operation of an imaging multi-modality system 10, which, for example, includes any combination of known imaging modalities, is controlled from an operator workstation 12 which is coupled to a hospital network 14. The hospital network 14 includes associated hospital software 16 and a hospital records database 18. The workstation 12 may be hardwired to the network 14 or may communicate with it wirelessly. In one embodiment, the workstation 12 communicates with other hospital workstations or computers, which are connected to the hospital network 14, enabling the images and patient records to be forwarded to the appropriate hospital personnel and displayed on associated monitors. Of course, it is contemplated that imaging system 10 is a stand alone system without network connections.

The multi-modality system 10 includes a first imaging system, preferably a functional modality, preferably, a nuclear imaging system 20, and a second imaging system, such as a computed tomography (CT) scanner 22. The CT scanner 22 includes a non-rotating gantry 24. An x-ray tube 26 is mounted to a rotating gantry 28. A bore 30 defines an examination region 32 of the CT scanner 22. An array of radiation detectors 34 is disposed on the rotating gantry 28 to receive radiation from the x-ray tube 26 after the x-rays transverse the examination region 32. Alternatively, the array of detectors 34 may be positioned on the non-rotating gantry 24. Of course, other imaging systems are also contemplated.

The functional or nuclear imaging system 20, preferably, includes a positron emission tomography (PET) scanner 40 which is mounted on tracks 42. Of course, SPECT and other imaging systems are also contemplated. The tracks 42 extend in parallel to a longitudinal axis of a subject support or couch 44, thus enabling the CT scanner 22 and PET scanner 40 to form a closed system. A moving means 46, such as a motor and a drive, is provided to move the PET scanner 40 in and out of the closed position. Detectors 48 are arranged around a bore 50 which defines an examination region 52. In the PET system, the detectors 48 are preferably arranged in a stationery ring, although rotatable heads are also contemplated. In the SPECT system, the detectors 48 are preferably incorporated into individual heads, which are mounted for rotational and radial movement relative to the patient. A couch moving means 54, such as a motor and a drive, provides a longitudinal movement and vertical adjustment of the couch 44 in the examination regions 32, 52.

With continuing reference to FIG. 1, an operator, user or imaging technician performs a scan using the workstation 12 which includes a CPU processor or hardware device 60 and a software component or means 62 for carrying out the image processing functions and operations. The workstation 12 preferably includes one or more input devices 64 (e.g., a computer keyboard, mouse, etc.), and one or more monitors or displays 66. The user, via the input devices 64, can selectively control the workstation 12 and/or the entire imaging system 10. The couch 44, which carries a subject, is moved by the couch moving means 54 into the examination region 52 for a PET image to be generated by the PET scanner 40. Electronic data is reconstructed into a PET image by a PET reconstruction processor 70 and stored in a PET image memory 72. The couch moving means 54 moves the couch 44 to position the couch carrying the subject in the CT scanner examination region 32, where a CT image is taken. More particularly, the couch 44 with the subject is moved to the position in the CT examination 32 region that is geometrically and mechanically predicted as being the same as its imaged position in the PET imaging region 52. Electronic data is reconstructed into a 3D CT image by a CT reconstruction processor 74 and stored in a CT image memory 76.

The PET and CT images are aligned, registered, fused or manipulated in any other appropriate way, after which the image data is appropriately formatted by a video processor 78 for display on the monitor 66.

The operator or user controls display of images by using an application interface screen or screens 80 which are incorporated into the workstation 12 and displayed on the monitor 66. An interface component, processor, or means 82 controls the application interface 80. The operator uses the input device, such as a keyboard or mouse 64, to interact with an applications database 84 by navigating the application interface screens 80.

With continuing reference to FIG. 1 and further reference to FIG. 2, a viewer algorithm, device or means 86 allows the user to view, navigate and compare images of multiple patients. For example, the user selects multiple patient data to review and/or compare patients via the interface screens 80. Selected patient data 88 is passed to the viewer device 86 which then creates a patient viewer manager component 90 and passes the data to it.

The patient viewer manager 90 maintains the selected image data for each individual patient. More specifically, the patient viewer manager 90 keeps track of which patients are currently being viewed, launches any new patient for viewing in any order, closes a patient in viewing, and tabs all patients in viewing or tiles all patients in viewing for direct side by side comparison. The patient viewer manager 90 can launch a patient by name, or launch a patient before or after a given patient. If the patient is already launched, it is brought up to the front. If the patient's record is not launched or opened, a new launch is created.

A patient viewing component, algorithm, device or means 92 is responsible for a given patient viewing. The first patient on the list is chosen for viewing automatically at start-up time. More than two patients can be displayed in a tiled format which can be in a single display monitor or across multiple monitors, for direct side by side comparison.

The navigations among the patients in viewing are done through clicking on a patient tab or selecting that patient from a graphical user interface control (a list control). The patient data is loaded into the application on-demand to reduce the memory usage. However, it is also possible to load all data if the total data does not consume much memory or if the memory with a proper size is available. In this manner, multiple patients are viewed directly in a single integrated environment.

With continuing reference to FIG. 2 and further reference to FIG. 3, a layout manager, component, device, algorithm or means 94 manages layouts. More specifically, the layout manager 94 maintains a collection of layouts or layout pool 96. The layouts are obtained from embedded resources for factory layouts 98 and files for user defined layouts 100. Given a particular set of selected patient image data for reviewing, a predefined startup layout 102 is determined by consulting a preference setting. The user may switch to a different layout yet to be created or visited previously during a reviewing session. The user may modify a predefined layout as shown in FIG. 4 and save the modified layout 104. The user may also start from scratch, define his or her own layout, set it as the preferred one for a particular given set of image data, and use it in subsequent viewing sessions. For the currently displayed layout, the user may replace one image data with a different image data. The replacing image data can be displayed in the context of the replaced data, e.g. in the same layout. Alternatively, the best matching layout is found and launched. All images are displayed with the same viewing context.

With continuing reference to FIG. 2, a registration component, device, algorithm, processor or means 108 selects a global reference image 110 and registers or aligns images 112 with one another with respect to the global reference image 110. Any number of images can be managed and registered at a single time. Any image can participate in the registration as either a reference image or a floating image. More specifically, if a single image is selected for viewing, the image is viewed in its own coordinate system. When two or more images are selected for viewing, one image is selected as a reference image and the other images are designated as floating image(s). The floating images are shifted and rotated to match the reference image. The individual relation of each floating image to the reference image is computed based on the relation of each image to the global reference as discussed in detail below. The initial registration relation is determined on an as needed basis. In the registration that involves multiple images, the registration relation is propagated to other images in a well-controlled manner.

For example, when a group of images (including the case where only one image is selected) is selected for viewing for the first time, the registration device 108 selects the first volumetric image in the group as the global reference 110 (once the global reference is determined, it will not change). A global reference coordinate system, which defines a common frame of reference, is stored in a global reference memory 114.

When an image 112 is selected for viewing, the registration device 108 determines and stores a registration matrix (or parameters) for this particular volumetric image with respect to the global reference and stores the registration matrix in a registration matrix memory 116.

In one embodiment, the registration device 108 compares the frame of reference of each image to the common frame of reference, e.g. frame of reference of the global reference image. If the image has the same frame of reference unique identification (FoR UID) as that of the global reference and there is no other information to overwrite that, the registration matrix is identity. If the image and the global reference have different FoR UIDs and the registration is not known a priori, the registration device 108 aligns the volume centers of the two images and propagates the resultant registration matrix to all other volumetric images that share the same FoR UID as the image under registration. As a result, registrations of such images to the global reference image do not need to be determined. If the registration between the image and the global reference is known a priori, the registration device 108 propagates the determined registration matrix to all other volumetric images that share the same FoR UID as the image under registration. The registrations of such images to the global reference image do not need to be determined. In this manner, registrations of multiple images are simplified.

The registration of the global reference can be changed. Any change is interpreted as a change with respect to its original coordinate system. The registration of any image with respect to the global reference is interpreted with respect to the original coordinate system of the global reference.

As an alternative, the global reference can be duplicated or copied to be registered to other images as a floating image. As another alternative, the registration matrices of each image can be determined in a single step rather than an on-demand basis.

With continuing reference to FIG. 2 and further reference to FIG. 5, the registration processor 108 computes a relative registration relation M_(r1r2) between first and second or reference and floating volumetric images 117, 118 as: M_(r1r2)=M_(r1) ⁻¹M_(r2), where M_(r1) is the registration of the first image with respect to the global reference; and M_(r2) is the registration of the second image with respect to the global reference.

The relative registration M_(r1r2) between the reference and floating volumetric images 117, 118 is stored in a registration memory 119.

When the relative registration M_(r1r2) of the floating image 118 with respect to the reference image 117 is changed due to any reasons (manual registration, automatic registration, etc.), the equivalent change with respect to the global reference image 110 is computed and recorded. The same registration is propagated to other images in a controlled manner.

The registration M_(r2) of the floating image 118 with respect to the global reference is: M_(r2)=M_(r1)M_(r1r2).

If the reference image and floating image have different FoR UIDs, the registration M_(r2) of the floating image with respect to the global reference is propagated to all other volumetric images that share the same FoR UID as the floating image under concern. If the FoR UID is not present, it is considered as a mismatch.

If the reference image and floating image have the same FoR UID, to correct the motion between CT and PET acquisition, for example, the registration M_(r2) of the floating image with respect to the global reference is propagated to all other images that share the same FOR UID as the floating image under concern and have the same modality as the floating image.

In this manner, a global reference volumetric image 110 is introduced and all other volumetric images are registered to such virtual global reference. There is no limit on the number of volumetric images the registration device 108 can handle and register at a single time. The coordinate system of the global reference is not fixed. The global reference can participate in the registration as a floating image with respect to other images (the coordinate system of the global reference before registration is used as global reference coordinate system and thus is virtual). The registration relation between any two volumetric images is computed from their respective relation with the global reference. The individual relation to the global reference can be decided inside the same application or inferred from outside information (same or different frame of reference unique identification (FoR UID), or DICOM spatial registration object). The global reference is intelligently selected. For example, in the case of mixed volumetric and non-volumetric images, the global reference is not set until a first volumetric image is selected for viewing. Likewise, the individual registration with respect to the global reference is not determined until the image is selected for viewing. If there is no pre-determined registration between the global reference and the image under concern, the two centers of the volumetric images are aligned and that alignment relation is set as the initial registration that can be overwritten later if necessary. Moreover, the so-determined initial registration is propagated to other volumetric images if their relations to the image under concern are known.

When multiple floating images are registered to the same reference image, the registrations with respect to the reference image can be updated as a group with the option that each individual image can be either updated or not updated.

With continuing reference to FIG. 2, a localization device, algorithm, processor or means 120 uses a maximum intensity projection (MaxIP) of the PET image to update other image planes such as transverse, sagittal, and/or coronal images. More specifically, the user selects a point of interest, for example, by clicking on a point in the image with the mouse. The localization device 120 computes the exact location of the selected point and uses this point's 3D coordinates to update all other image planes. The clicked point is computed in the original coordinate system and transformed to the common registered coordinate system. If there are more than two images which are registered and displayed, the localization device 120 allows the registered and fused images to be updated properly. Optionally, the MaxIP image, transverse, sagittal, and/or coronal images of other volumetric images can be displayed at the same time and can be fused with the corresponding transverse, sagittal, or coronal images. As a further option, the MaxIP image can be fused. In the case of MaxIP fusion, the user has the option to specify which MaxIP image from the correlation to be used from this addresses the case in which two different physical locations contribute to the same point in the MaxIP images. In the case that the clicked point is from a regular two-dimensional image plane (transverse/sagittal/coronal), a point in the MaxIP image is also identified where the maximum intensity pixel and the clicked point are in the same projection line.

More specifically, with particular reference to FIG. 6, the localization device 120 performs a localization process 122 after the user selects a point on the MaxIP image. In step 122 a, the position of the clicked point is retrieved in the screen coordinate system. In step 122 b, the screen position is transformed into a point in the patient coordinate system by taking into account the image position and image orientation vectors. In step 122 c, the original contributing point in the patient coordinate system is sought. Optionally, the information can be stored and no further computation is needed. In step 122 d, the coordinates found in step 122 c are transformed into a common coordinate system (i.e. of the global reference image). In step 122 e, the coordinates in the common coordinate system are used to update all associated images. E.g., the transverse image at the same z position is displayed.

With reference again to FIGS. 3 and 4, a selected point of interest 124 is illustrated by a cross. The selected point of interest 124 is propagated to all associated images to identify corresponding points of interest 126.

With reference again to FIG. 5, a comparator 130 compares temporal studies or groups 132, 134 of selected images. More specifically, the user selects different groups such as first and second groups of images 132, 134 for comparison via the interface screen 80. For example, if two or more DICOM study objects are selected, the volumetric images in each study form a group. Volumetric images can also be directly selected to form groups. The user can start with one group and use combinations of keys and mouse or other devices to select more groups. A two-dimensional array is used to represent selected groups, in which each row is a group. One of the volumetric images, for example a first image in the group, is selected as the reference image 117, for example, automatically or manually. The rest of the images of the group are designated as floating images 118. All floating images 118 in the same group are registered to the reference image 117 in the same group.

Within a group, the floating image has to be informed which image is the reference image; and the reference image has to be informed it is a reference image.

After the comparison groups 132, 134 are formed, the comparison groups 132, 134 can be displayed independently. A group registration device, algorithm, means or processor 138 determines a linking relation between groups that is used in subsequent reviewing. The registration can be established in at least two different ways: (1) the crude registration and (2) the precise registration.

With continuing reference to FIG. 5 and further reference to FIG. 7, the group registration processor 138 determines the crude registration in a crude group registration process 140. In step 142, a point correlation (triangulation) is used to identify a common point (hot spot, internal mark, or external mark) in any volumetric image in the first group 132. For example, the user clicks on the point of interest in one of the images of the first group 132. Step 142 can be performed multiple times. Position of the identified point is stored 144 in a first group memory 146. In step 148, the point correlation is similarly used to identify the same common point in any volumetric image in the second group 134. For example, the user clicks on the similar point in one of the images of the second group 134. Step 148 can be performed multiple times. Position of the identified point is stored 150 in a second group memory 152. Of course, step 148 can be performed on more than one group.

Alternatively, several common points can be identified in each group 132, 134 to improve the registration accuracy. The positions of the points are stored in a corresponding first or second group memory 146, 152.

After the common points in all groups are identified, the group registration processor 138 retrieves the stored positions from the first and second group memories 146, 152 and the registration is computed 154. The process 140 can be initialized with a clicking on a graphical (button) control. More hue can be provided once the relation is computed. Only the relation with respect to the first group is computed regardless of a number of groups selected.

If there is only one point identified in each group, only translation relation between two groups is considered, which is given by the differences between their x/y/z coordinates. If two points are identified in each group, translation (or translation and one rotation) relation between two groups is considered. If more than three (inclusive) points are identified, the relation can be found by the technique used in conjugate-point based registration. It is not required to select the same number of points in each group.

With continuing reference to FIG. 5 and further reference to FIG. 8, the group registration processor 138 determines 160 the precise registration between groups by using registration between two studies (one volumetric image from each study group) and linking the groups by this precise relation. For example, a first image in each group is selected as the reference image. The registration M_(r1) of the reference image 117 of the first group 132 with respect to the global reference 110 is retrieved 162. The registration M_(r2) of the reference image of the second group 134 with respect to the global reference 110 is retrieved 164. The registration M_(r1r2) between the reference image in the first group 132 and the reference image in the second group 134 is determined 166 as: M_(r1r2)=M_(r1) ⁻¹M_(r2),

where M_(r1) is the registration of the first reference image with respect to the global reference; and M_(r2) is the registration of the second reference image with respect to the global reference.

The registration M_(r1r2) is used as the registration between the two groups 132, 134. For other groups if any, only the relation with the first group 132 is maintained which is determined in the same manner. Alternatively, all pairwise relations can be maintained and used. Once the group relation is established, the same relation is used to link the localization points in the reference images of each group. Whenever the localization point changes in any group, the corresponding point in other groups is computed using the linking relation established early and the computed point is set to their groups, which triggers the update within the group.

With reference again to FIG. 2 and further reference to FIG. 9, an oblique processor, device, algorithm or means 168 performs 170 a registration reformatting to do an oblique reformatting to one of the two images. For example, two volumetric images A and B are registered with respect to the global reference and the registration matrix 116 is available. Alternatively, images A, B share the same FoR UID. Alternatively, images A, B are registered 172, either manually or automatically, inside or outside the same application and the registration matrix is available. Alternatively one can directly set the registration parameters using the provided registration numerical values.

In step 174, an oblique image is received. For example, at least one of the images A, B is oblique. The image can be oblique when the image is loaded from disk. Alternatively, the image is made oblique reformatted within the same application. As a further option, the image itself is not oblique directly, but the oblique parameters are set and used.

In step 176, an oblique plane is determined. For example, if the oblique images are loaded from the disk directly, the oblique plane is determined from the image orientation vectors. The cross product of those two vectors gives a third vector. The name of the oblique plane (oblique transverse/sagittal/coronal) can be determined by the information coded in the image if present; otherwise, it is determined by comparing the image orientation vectors with respect to the standard x/y/z axes, and if it is closest to the transverse (sagittal or coronal) plane, it is oblique transverse (sagittal or coronal). The comparison is done on the summation of squared inner products between normalized vectors and the larger, the closer. In the comparison, the directions of those vectors are ignored. Denote the three oblique vectors as u, v, and w, which are closest to the x, y, and z-axes respectively. Generally, the directions of the u, v, and w vectors point to the directions of positive x, y, and z-axes respectively; if not, they are negated.

If the oblique images are not loaded from disk files, but generated, then the three oblique vectors can be decided in the same fashion.

A set of geometric information is generated for oblique slice creation, which includes the image orientation vectors, the number of slices, the center of the generated slices, the physical extent of the generated slices, and the number of pixels and pixel physical sizes for the slices. The image orientation vectors are determined by the name of the oblique planes. For example, if an oblique transverse view is requested, two vectors u and v are used. If an oblique sagittal view is requested, y and w are used. If an oblique coronal view is requested, then w and x are used.

In steps 178, 180, the oblique image (Image B) is selected as a reference image 117 and an image to be oblique (Image A) is selected as a floating image 118. The floating image 118 is automatically oblique reformatted 182 due to the registration reformatting. Particularly, the generated geometric information is used to create oblique slice for the image A. The geometric information can be used directly. As an alternative, the center of the generated slices, the physical extent of the generated slices, and the number of pixels and pixel physical sizes for the slices can vary. When generating the slices for a different image, the registration of this image with respect to the reference image, on which the geometric information (mainly orientation vectors and image position) is specified, is taken into account. This process is called registration reformatting. User can optionally save the secondary reformatted images in any oblique plane should it be available.

In this manner, a new workflow concept utilizes the registration reformatting to do the oblique reformatting, which avoids the manual or automatic oblique reformatting operation on associated images. In the fusion display, the oblique planes of the oblique image (reference) are used rather than the conventional transverse/sagittal/coronal, i.e. the oblique transverse/sagittal/coronal image planes are used. Due to the registration reformatting, the other (floating) image is automatically oblique reformatted to have the same image planes as the oblique (reference) image. This way, the tedious manual oblique reformatting on the (floating) image can be avoided or the automatic oblique reformatting becomes unnecessary, which often generates a different set of oblique parameters.

With continuing reference to FIG. 2 and further reference to FIG. 10, the layout manager 94 defines and/or creates a layout definition 196 in step 198, in which layout attributes 200, such as data inputs 202 and viewers 204 are specified 206, and data is associated with the viewers 204. The layout definition 196 can be defined in any format of a text file or a data object as long as it can be easily manipulated. An exemplary XML format is:

<name>Axial-comparison-AllF</name> <description>AxialComparison</description> <writable>false</writable> <favoriteRating>101</favoriteRating> <inputs>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>Input1</inputReference>     <modality>Anatomical</modality>   </Characteristics>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>Input2</inputReference>     <modality>FunctionalAnatomical</modality>   </Characteristics> </inputs> <ViewerCfgs>   <ViewerCfg>     <width>50</width>     <height>100</height>     <x>0</x>     <y>0</y>     <viewerType>MPR</viewerType>       <fusionState>Underlay</fusionState>     <underlay>       <inputReference>Input1</inputReference>     </underlay>     <overlay>       <inputReference>Input2</inputReference>     </overlay>     <orientation>Transverse</orientation>     <zoomFactor>1.3</zoomFactor>   </ViewerCfg>   <ViewerCfg>     <width>50</width>     <height>100</height>     <x>50</x>     <y>0</y>     <viewerType>MPR</viewerType>       <fusionState>Overlay</fusionState>     <underlay>       <inputReference>Input1</inputReference>     </underlay>     <overlay>       <inputReference>Input2</inputReference>     </overlay>     <orientation>Transverse</orientation>     <enableCine>false</enableCine>     <zoomFactor>1.3</zoomFactor>   </ViewerCfg> </ViewerCfgs> </Layout>

Such exemplary layout defines two inputs. A first input (“Input1”) looks for any anatomical volume series. A second input (“Input2”) looks for any supported volume series, which are defined in a modality field. The value of the modality field can also be very specific, for example, MR, CT, PET, SPECT, SC (secondary capture), etc. The exemplary layout next defines two viewers (“ViewerCfg”), which have fusion capability. The viewers show transverse image orientation: one viewer is showing underlay image and the other viewer is showing overlay image as the starting viewing option. The layout manager 94 can use this file as an input, in conjunction with the selected series and a set of built-in linking rules, to build a complete specification. The layout definition 196 is, of course, scalable to include multiple inputs, multiple viewers with different types, and different viewer configurations. Tables 1-3 below explain how to configure each attribute 200 of a layout definition.

TABLE 1 Layout Attribute Type Description writable bool 0: this layout is read only; 1: layout can be overwritten, and can be removed. name string Layout name is served as ID. The layout name is unique among all layouts defined by one physician. The layout name/layout icon name/layout file name are the same. description string Layout description is used as tool tip and item display on preference page. favoriteRating int A score. The higher the value, the better chance the layout will be selected when multiple layouts match a same query. ViewerCfgs IList A list of all viewer configurations. inputs Characteritics[ ] Characterized data inputs. Each input forms a query to all selected data from an application data model (a software component that is responsible for packaging and reformatting image data for display).

TABLE 2 ViewerCfg Attribute Type Description Name String Viewer name, which is normally generated by layout manager at runtime if this is not specified. It is used as a node name by a protocol engine to associate with a viewer. Width int Width of tab container holding the viewer Height int Height of tab container holding the viewer X int X location of the tab container holding the viewer Y int Y location of the tab container holding the viewer screenIndex int 0 - main monitor, 1 - second monitor viewerType ViewerType The exemplary values include Basic2D MPR MIP CardiacOblique BrainOblique Different viewer type means different default viewer configuration. For example, for basic 2D viewing, we do not provide fusion capability for this viewer. For MIP (maximal intensity projection) viewer, we do not provide any ROI measurement tool. For CardiacOblique viewer and BrainOblique viewer, we provide some specialized image interactors. underlay Characteristics Used to refer to which input source is used for the underlying data view. For example, it is a query among all layout inputs. overlay Characteristics Used to refer to which input source is used for the superimposed data view. For example, it is as a query among all layout inputs. orientation ImageOrientation Values include Any (Basic2D, MIP) Transverse (TSC display) Sagittal (TSC display) Coronal (TSC display) transformedStage TransformedStage Values include NotTransformed (default) Intermediate1 Transformed Any values other than NotTransformed are only meaningful for oblique utility layouts. columns unit Rows of tiles in the viewer rows unit Columns of tiles in the viewer enableCine bool This flag indicates if cine should be enabled when the viewer is created. zoomFactor float Zoom factor with which the viewer should initially apply to images. If it is not specified, then default 1 will be used. viewerConfigurationClass string This attribute allows user to specify his/her own viewer configuration class, which is normally done by layout manager automatically based on viewer type. extraActions string[ ] This attributes allows user to instruct layout manager to execute canned actions specified here after a viewing network is established.

TABLE 3 Characteristics Attribute Type Description name string Unique string used to identify data view generated from this input. It is generated internally by protocol builder inputReference InputIndex Values include None Input1 Input2 Input3 Input4 Input5 Input6 — ALL This attribute keeps tracking the original input index. With this macro, we can search all inputs available that meet the criterions presented in Characteristics data object. modality Modality Values include supported modality: Any - any modality including secondary capture, FunctionalAnatomical - any volume Functional - any functional volume such as PET and SPECT, Anatomical —any anatomical volume, PET, CT, MR, SPECT method Method Value include Any (default) Diagnostic (CT) LowDose (CT) CTAC (PET) NonAC (PET) contrastAgent ContrastAgent Enumeration type. Value include Either (default) NonContrast (not contrast) Contrast (contrast enhanced) groupIndex Int It is used in group comparison. It indicates which group this input belongs to. Default value is 0 if it is not specified. ImageType string[ ] Array of strings requiring all image types in this array to be present in order for an NM image to be matched.

In this manner, users define a balanced layout definition by editing a simple layout file, with which a complete display protocol can be built on the fly based on the current data selection, user preference, and built-in application linking rules. This allows the users to review and interact with the images in the way that the layout is specified.

With continuing reference to FIGS. 2 and 10 and further reference to FIG. 11, in step 208, the layout device 94 performs data sorting and layout selection. In step 210, a series characterization is performed. More specifically, some series' properties are retrieved and saved in an object of characteristics class, which is then put into a hash table with the series as its key. Some of the other information such as a group index, which is not part of the series' attributes, is obtained from input groups.

When the selected data 88 includes multi studies, the layout manager 94 performs a study sorting 212 based on studies sorting rules 214 and decides which study should be displayed first. For example, the studies sorting rules include a rule by which a newer study has a higher priority than an older study.

In step 220, a series role sorting is performed based on series role sorting rules 222 to select a series which can serve as a reference. For example, a resolution along the z direction is checked in all selected series to determine which one in its group is the best for reference. If the resolution fails to tell the difference, then the modality is used to differentiate them with the following order CT/MR/PET/SPECT.

In step 230, the series are sorted based on series sorting rules 232 to determine which series will be used first for data matching purpose. For example, the series are sorted into two groups such as anatomical and functional. For example, the series are sorted based on a modality according to the following order: PET/SPECT/CT/MR/SC.

For example, functional series (e.g., images generated with the nuclear imaging system 20) are sorted based on the following priorities:

Registered over non-registered

CT Attenuation Corrected (CTAC) over non-attenuation corrected (NonAC)

Larger field of view (FOV) over smaller FOV

Longer Z coverage over shorter Z coverage (such as whole body over brain)

Static over dynamic

Reformatted over non-reformatted

Newer over older

For example, anatomical series (e.g., images generated with the CT scanner 22) are sorted based on the following priorities:

Higher resolution over lower resolution

Larger FOV over smaller FOV (such as low dose CT over diagnose CT)

Longer Z coverage over shorter Z coverage

Contrast enhanced over non-contrast enhanced

Newer over older

After the sorting, series are picked alternately from functional group and anatomical group if possible until limit is reached (3 series for a non-comparison case). For example, if one CT, one CTAC PET, one NonAC PET and one SC series are selected, then in the final list are CTAC PET/CT/NonAC series.

In step 240, all applicable matching layouts 242 among all available layouts are identified for data selection. For example, the layout identification algorithm is:

Characterize input series for each layout   get all required input characteristics   for each input characteristics     get a list of series matching this characteristics       if there isn’t any series in the list which is not included          the layout is considered not matched         continue on next layout       else         include the new series and         continue on next required input characteristics   add this layout into matched layout list sort all matched layouts

The layouts are selected or sorted 250 based on input matching number, user favorite rating, and layout sorting rules 252 to decide which layout should be launched first. For example, a user selects one PET and one CT and there is one layout displaying PET and another displaying PET/CT. The layout sorting rules 252 include a rule by which the PET/CT layout gets higher priority regardless of favorite rating. Favorite rating starts to play a role when there is more than one layout matching the same number of inputs. Another example of a rule is the rule which gives a priority to the current layout if the current layout matches the current series selection.

In this manner, the optimal layout is automatically selected based on the data selection. This is based on built-in study and series sorting algorithms, the list of available layouts and the user favorite rating, and the layout that is currently being displayed.

With continuing reference to FIGS. 2, 10 and 11 and further reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, the layout device 94 converts 260 the selected layout to a viewing network. The layout manager 94 assigns 262 monitors to the selected layout. For example, some layouts require multiple monitors for display. Effective viewing areas of each monitor are computed and use to configure a monitor configure object, which is used by the protocol engine. As a result, the viewers are displayed in monitors where the viewers are supposed to be displayed without crossing a monitor boundary.

In step 264, input macros are expanded. As described above, layout inputs are defined through characteristics objects, which may include some macro key words such as “All” for inputReference field. For example, all series available that meet the defined criterion, are searched. The input is expanded into several concrete inputs. For example, the layout input contains a macro “All” in the inputReference field:

<inputs>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>All</inputReference>     <modality>PET</modality>   </Characteristics> </inputs>

Assuming there are three series available, among which two series are PET image data and one series is SPECT image data. The input “All” is expanded into two input definitions, including “Input1” for PET modality and “Input2” for SPECT modality:

<inputs>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>Input1</inputReference>     <modality>PET</modality>   </Characteristics>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>Input2</inputReference>     <modality>SPECT</modality>   </Characteristics> </inputs>

After macro expansion, each series are assigned 270 to the layout input which characteristics matches the series.

In step 272, viewer macros are expanded. Generally, every viewer can have a maximum of two inputs. Each input can potentially have macros such as “All” for inputReference. A viewer's input characteristics defines a query. If there is more than one series that meet the criterion for one viewer input, the extra viewer(s) are spawned. For example, the extra viewers are tabbed together in the same area. The scope of the search is limited within all series the layout has been assigned to.

In step 274, viewer inputs are synched with layout inputs. This step makes sure that the viewer's input is assigned with the series.

Once a layout definition is fully populated, a complete display protocol 278 is built 280 from the layout definition. The full display protocol describes what components are needed and how the components need to be connected.

In step 282, a node map is registered. Since data views (packed image data for viewers to display) are provided by the application data model, this step helps to label them with proper names so that they can be connected properly.

In step 284, data view dimensions are matched for a possible fusion application. For example, when one viewer gets assigned two data views with different numbers of dimensions, this step will expand the data view with fewer dimensions to match the one with more dimensions. For example, a viewer has a CT data as its underlay, which is one-dimensional, e.g. it contains only one volume, and has a PET data as its overlay, which is two-dimensional, e.g. meaning it contains multiple volumes at the same location but from different times. The CT data is expanded to have the same number of volumes as the PET data by “duplicating” itself. No actual pixel data is duplicated but only the reference points are added. E.g., the user is allowed to navigate through all dimensions of a multiple dimensional image data and to fuse it with other modality data with or without the same dimensions.

In step 288, a viewing protocol is executed. A protocol engine 290 uses the complete display protocol 278 to instantiate all software objects and connect them to establish the viewing network.

In step 292, a viewing network is registered with a link controller 294 which automatically links viewers. Although the protocol engine 290 establishes an initial viewing network, in a fusion display, for example, color map links need to be changed based on each viewer's fusion state. The link controller 294 acts as a manager and administers the entire linking behavior, e.g. adding/removing links. More specifically, the link controller 294 automatically links viewers to the associated image data based on a set of rules 300 including rules for a color map linking 302, a window level linking 304, triangulation 306 and a zoom/pan presentation linking 308 as described below.

Examples of rules for a color map linking 302:

If same group (in case of comparison)

-   -   If common modality         -   If non-fused viewer, or same pin if fused viewer             -   Same color stripe (lookup table)

Example of rules for a window level linking 304:

If same group (in case of comparison)

-   -   If common series         -   Same upper/lower, window/center

Example of rules for triangulation 306:

If same group (in case of comparison)

-   -   Triangulation of all TSC views

Examples of rules for zoom/pan linking 308:

If same group (in case of comparison)

-   -   If common orientation (transverse, sagittal or coronal)         -   Same zoom and pan

In this manner, the viewers are automatically linked to the image data associated with the viewers based on a set of built-in linking rules for all layouts. The rules are automatically enforced even when some viewers are destroyed or series is replaced until the user specifically makes a change.

In step 309, the layout manager 94 applies application specific actions in an orderly manner.

With continuing reference to FIGS. 2 and 10, for easy switching of layouts, the layout manager 94 preserves 310 the viewing context, including preservation of a color map 312, window level 314, hot spot 316, zoom/pan factors 318, image index offset 320, start position 322 and free dimension 324. Each viewing context is stored under a certain key, which is generated based on certain set of rules (in some cases, these are also the rules used to generate across viewer links). After layout is switched, the keys for every viewer and data views attached to it are regenerated. Using the keys, the viewing context is fetched from a common hash table. If such viewing context exists for a given key, it should be reapplied to the viewer and data view from which the key is generated. Of course, it is contemplated that the other features can be preserved such as region of interest (ROI), labels, tags, markers, and the like.

To preserve the color map 312, a color map of each data view is retrieved and saved in a hash table under a unique key string which uses namespace naming convention. The color map will be transferred to next layout's data view as long as both layouts share the same group index, the same modality and the same pin (for fused case).

For example, for a fused case, a unique key string is:

Identifier.Modality.Pin.GroupIndex,

where Identifier is “Colormap”; Modality is one of the following key words “PET”, “CT”, “MR” or “SPECT”; Pin means “underlay” or “overlay” depending on where the data view is attached; and GroupIndex indicates which group the color map is pulled from in case of group comparison (for non-comparison layout, the value is 0).

As another example, for a non-fused case, a unique key string is:

Identifier.Modality.GroupIndex,

where Identifier is “Colormap”; Modality is one of the following key words “PET”, “CT”, “MR” or “SPECT”; and GroupIndex indicates which group the color map is pulled from in case of group comparison (for non-comparison layout, the value is 0).

The window level is preserved 314 by using a following exemplary key string:

Identifier.SeriesHashCode.RotationMIP.GroupIndex,

where Identifier is “WindowLevel”; SeriesHashCode is the hash code of the series; and RotationMIP is a Boolean indicating if the window level is pulled from a MIP viewer (window level is not linked to/from an MIP viewer.)

Since there is only one hot spot per group, the hot spot is preserved 316 by using an exemplary key string:

Identifier.GroupIndex,

where Identifier is “Geo”.

Zoom and Pan factors are kept in displayed area window. Only displayed area window needs to be preserved. Zoom and Pan Factors are preserved 318 by using an exemplary key string:

Identifier.SeriesHashCode.Orientation.ViewerType.GroupIndex,

where Identifier is “ZoomPan”; SeriesHashCode is the hash code of the series; Orientation is image orientation specified in viewer configuration; and ViewerType is viewer type that is also specified in viewer configuration object.

The image index offset, which is an attribute of viewer's control model, is preserved 320 by using an exemplary key string for a non fused case:

Identifier. SeriesHashCode.Orientation.ViewerType.GroupIndex,

where Identifier is “IndexOffset”; SeriesHashCode is the hash code of the series; Orientation is image orientation specified in viewer configuration; and ViewerType is viewer type that is also specified in viewer configuration object.

For a fused case, the image index offset is preserved 320 by using another exemplary key string:

Identifier.UnderlaySeriesHashCode.OverlaySeriesHashCode.Orientation.View erType.GroupIndex,

where Identifier is “IndexOffset”; SeriesHashCode is the hash code of the series; Orientation is image orientation specified in viewer configuration; and ViewerType is viewer type that is also specified in viewer configuration object.

The start position is preserved 322 by using the same key as used to preserve the image index offset. The start position is an attribute of indexer control model which itself is a part of viewer's control model.

In this manner, viewing context is automatically and intelligently preserved when switching layouts. Viewing Context includes color maps for modalities of series being reviewed, window levels for series being reviewed, zoom/pan factor for different image orientations that are displayed, lesions that are located by the user, image index, and others.

Free dimension is preserved 324 by using the same key as used to preserve the image index offset. The free dimension is an attribute of indexer control model which itself is a part of viewer's control model.

With continuing reference to FIG. 2, a fusion controller 326 controls display of fused images via a toggle switch 328. Generally, images are frequently displayed in a non-fused mode with a demand to occasionally review images in the fused fashion. In one embodiment, all viewers are defined as fused viewers, e.g. in the non-fused mode, the viewer status is changed to a non-fused. The invisible data view is deactivated so that it will not be affected by any changes occurred in the same viewer or other viewers. If the viewer status is changed to a fused mode, the link controller 294 first disconnects the viewer and its image data from its current color map link, and then looks for a suitable color map link which takes care of fused viewers. If such link exists, the link controller includes the new fused viewer along with its data views into the link. If such link does not exist, the link controller creates such a viewer. A similar process happens when a fusion is turned off.

Different set of templates, that define what image information is and how it should be displayed along with image pixel data, is used to handle image information annotation. When the fusion is turned on, a fused annotation template is used. When the fusion is turned off, depending on which data view is visible, a corresponding non-fused annotation template is used. To avoid confusion, an ROI measurement reflects one image at a time. When the fusion status is changed, an ROI association is changed accordingly.

In this manner, the single toggle 328 is provided to turn fusion on/off in any individual viewer within a layout with annotation, region of interest measurements and linking behavior automatically adjusted to the change of the fusion status so that consistent application behavior is maintained.

With reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, the users are allowed to modify existing display and save the modified display as a new layout. For example, the user inspects the current display 330 and moves image 332 into position 334. All viewers that are on screen are searched. Their position, size, fusion state, zoom factors, and monitor information are fetched. Layout inputs are populated when an associated layout is processed.

At runtime, layout inputs are populated and they can also be replaced. A fully initialized layout contains no macros. For example, a layout has two inputs which are defined as:

<inputs>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>Input1</inputReference>     <modality>Anatomical</modality>   </Characteristics>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>Input2</inputReference>     <modality>FunctionalAnatomical</modality>   </Characteristics> </inputs>

After the layout is fully populated, the inputs of its working copy become, for example:

<inputs>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>Input1</inputReference>     <modality>MR</modality>   </Characteristics>   <Characteristics>     <inputReference>Input2</inputReference>     <modality>CT</modality>   </Characteristics> </inputs>

The same level of modality specificity that the original layout supports is maintained when the layout is modified and saved. From the example above, when such layout is loaded, only MR & CT can be handled. To overcome this, the following scheme can be used:

Go through each input

If the populated input supports a subset of data range that the original input does

-   -   Then the original input will be used as the new layout input         definition

Otherwise

-   -   Promote the populated input to the same modality specificity as         the original

With reference to FIG. 16, a layout icon 344 is created on the fly. A screen capture of an entire image display area is performed. A thumbnail out of the capture is made and saved as a part of the new layout's icon.

With reference to FIG. 17, the users handle the display 350 of the oblique images. In step 352, an oblique angle is detected and measured. When a volume is reformatted, two pieces of oblique information are stored in DICOM file: (1) row/column vectors, and (2) view code sequence, from which the original oblique transformation can be uniquely constructed. Once the original oblique transformation is constructed, the original oblique rotation angles or the rotation of each axis from its original direction can be determined.

In step 354, user sets an oblique TSC display state based on the oblique angle. When a volume is loaded, the user requests permission from the application to view the images at the oblique TSC instead of the normal TSC. The permission to use the oblique display is based on rules. The rules, for example, are based on the oblique angle measurement, the existence of the oblique angle in one of the images, and the layout configuration. For example, the permission is granted if the oblique angle is from about 0° to about 42.5°. If the volume is not tilted, the permission is denied. In step 356, the user controls TSC display based on different oblique angles. The user can set any series as reference, so the actual oblique angle is derived from the reference image. For example, a first series has a 10° rotation along axial axis and a second series has a 20° rotation along axial axis. The user can display or fuse the first and second series by aligning the first or second series with either series. The series can be displayed in non-oblique and/or oblique fashion.

In this manner, users can edit a currently displayed layout by re-positioning viewers (components that display images on screen), resizing viewers, changing fusion status of viewers, adjust zoom/pan factor of viewers, destroying viewers, changing viewing series, etc., and caching it in memory and saving it. This makes creating a viewing network with desired initializations, which used to be the task of software developers, as easy as saving a modified word processing document.

In one exemplary embodiment, a layout editor, component, device, algorithm or means 400 facilitates creation and modification of layouts, such as user-defined layouts. As shown in FIG. 18, the layout editor 400 can be a separate component that is added to or otherwise interfaces directly with an imaging system, such as the imaging system 10. It is also contemplated that the layout editor 400 could be integrated with one or more components of the imaging system 10, such as with the layout manager 94.

The layout editor 400 generates an interactive user interface 402 on a display or displays (e.g., one or more monitors) of the imaging system 10, whereby a user can create and/or modify a layout in real time by interacting with the user interface 402. The layouts created by the layout editor 400 can be added to the layout pool 96 and managed by the layout manager 94.

As shown in FIG. 19, the user interface 402 includes a layout design area 404 and a configuration area 406. The user interface 402 can also include or otherwise be displayed with one or more input or navigation areas 408.

The layout design area 404 occupies the same area or at least a portion of the same area (i.e., an image display area 410 as shown in FIG. 20) on which images can be displayed by the imaging system 10.

The configuration area 406 includes controls 412 and a preview window 414 for, among other things, adding and updating viewers (e.g., viewers 204) to reflect any configuration changes relative to the input image data. The controls 412 can be implemented, for example, as tabs or menus. In one exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 19 and 21, the controls 412 include a series of pull-down menus labeled Group No. 416, Viewer Type 418, Overlay 420, Underlay 422, Fusion State 424, and Orientation 426. The controls 412 also include one or more pull-down menus for defining one or more initial layout templates 428, with each layout template 428 being associated with a different monitor. Each of these monitors can be an actual or virtual display device. In this manner, layouts can be edited for more than one monitor, even when multiple monitors are not currently connected or otherwise available. The controls 412 include an option (e.g., checkbox 430) for keeping previously defined or default viewers when selecting a layout template 428.

The Group No. menu 416 allows the user to designate input data as belonging to a particular group, which is useful when comparing different data sets (e.g., from different patients). The Viewer Type menu 418 allows the user to specify a desired viewer type (e.g., MPR, MIP, Basic2D, Slab, Volume, Graph, Table) for use in the layout. The Overlay menu 420 and the Underlay menu 422 allow the user to indicate which input sources, if any, are used for the underlying data view and the superimposed data view, respectively. The Fusion State menu 424 indicates and/or allows the user to select whether the input source being used is the underlay input source, the superimposed input source, or a fusion of the underlay input source and the superimposed input source (e.g., from two different modalities). The Orientation menu 426 allows the user to specify whether the orientation of the input data corresponds to a transverse, sagittal, or coronal view for those viewers supporting orientation information (e.g., MPR, Slab, Volume). The Orientation menu 426 can be set to “any” for those viewers lacking orientation information (e.g., MIP, Basic2D) or when orientation is not important or otherwise available and a default orientation can be used. In some instances, menus (e.g., Fusion State menu 424, Orientation menu 426) will be grayed out or otherwise inaccessible if the viewer (e.g., Graph, Table) does not support any such state or information.

Prior to editing or otherwise designing a layout, image data is loaded into the imaging system 10. For example, a volumetric PET series and a CT series are loaded into the imaging system 10. As another example, the image data may comprise a series of images over time, such as a movie or angiograph. Once the image data is displayed in the image display area 410 (see FIG. 20), the layout editor 400 can be launched or otherwise accessed to generate the user interface 402 within the image display area 410 (see FIG. 19). Thereafter, a user can interact with the user interface 402 to design or edit a layout.

In some embodiments, the image data may be generated by the imaging system at the same time that a user is designing or editing a layout. For example, in an interventional procedure, an imaging system such as a CT system is used to provide real-time imaging data to aid a physician in placing an implant in a patient's body. As one specific example, CT data may be used to help determine where to implant and place a stent in a patient's blood vessel as the stent is being inserted. In such situations, the layout editor 400 can be launched or otherwise accessed to display real-time imaging data.

When editing the layout, the layout design area 404 is populated with one or more empty tiles 432. Each of the tiles 432 is able to accommodate one or more viewers (e.g., the viewers 204), as described below. If more than one viewer is placed in a tile 432, the viewers are tabbed together. A saved layout can include such tabbed viewers.

As shown in FIG. 21, layout templates 428 are available for two monitors (i.e., Monitor 1 and Monitor 2). In FIG. 19, because 3×2 and 0×0 layout templates 428 were selected for Monitor 1 and Monitor 2, respectively, six tiles 432 occupy the layout design area 404 arranged as 3 rows spanning 2 columns. Of course, other embodiments may incorporate only one monitor, or more than two monitors. Lines or other visible borders 434 separate each of the tiles 432 from any adjacent tiles 432. The user can readily resize (e.g., width, height) any of the tiles 432 simply by manipulating these borders 434, for example, by using the input device 64 to move one of the borders 434 to a new location. A tile 432 can be removed or merged with another tile 432 by moving one of its borders 434 on top of one of the other borders 434.

With reference to FIGS. 19 and 22-23, the initial 3×2 layout template 428 shown in FIG. 19 is modified into a new user-defined layout template shown in FIG. 23. First, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 22, two of the six evenly sized tiles 432 are merged to form one larger tile 432 by repositioning a border 434 separating the two tiles 432 along the arrow in FIG. 19. Then, as shown in FIGS. 22-23, the larger tile 432 is merged with one of the remaining four evenly sized tiles 432 to form an even larger tile 432 by repositioning a border 434 separating the two tiles 432 along the arrow in FIG. 22.

Once the tiles 432 are arranged and sized as desired, viewers can be associated with the tiles 432 using the controls 412. As shown in FIG. 24, the user defines a Slab viewer 436 for fused data having CT data as its underlay and PET data as its overlay, and having a transverse orientation. Application of this viewer 436 to the image input data generates a preview image displayed in the preview window 414 of FIG. 24. If the user is satisfied with this preview image, the user can readily associate the viewer 436 with the layout design by moving the preview image from the preview window 414 of the configuration area 406 into one of the tiles 432 of the layout design area 404. In one exemplary embodiment, the user can simply drag-and-drop the preview image representing the viewer 436 (e.g., by using the input device 64) from the preview window 414 to the tile 432. As shown in FIG. 25, the preview image is moved from the preview window 414 to one of the tiles 432, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 24, which adds the viewer 436 to the layout.

As shown in FIG. 26, the user defines a Slab viewer 438 for fused data having CT data as its underlay and PET data as its overlay, and having a sagittal orientation. Application of this viewer 438 to the image input data generates a preview image displayed in the preview window 414 of FIG. 26. If the user is satisfied with this preview image, the user can readily associate the viewer 438 with the layout design by moving the preview image from the preview window 414 of the configuration area 406 into one of the tiles 432 of the layout design area 404. As shown in FIG. 27, the preview image is moved from the preview window 414 to one of the tiles 432, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 26, which adds the viewer 438 to the layout.

As shown in FIG. 28, the user defines a Slab viewer 440 for fused data having CT data as its underlay and PET data as its overlay, and having a coronal orientation. Application of this viewer 440 to the image input data generates a preview image displayed in the preview window 414 of FIG. 28. If the user is satisfied with this preview image, the user can readily associate the viewer 440 with the layout design by moving the preview image from the preview window 414 of the configuration area 406 into one of the tiles 432 of the layout design area 404. As shown in FIG. 29, the preview image is moved from the preview window 414 to one of the tiles 432, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 28, which adds the viewer 440 to the layout.

As shown in FIG. 30, the user defines a Volume viewer 442 having non-fused data with CT data as its underlay, and having any orientation. Application of this viewer 442 to the image input data generates a preview image displayed in the preview window 414 of FIG. 30. If the user is satisfied with this preview image, the user can readily associate the viewer 442 with the layout design by moving the preview image from the preview window 414 of the configuration area 406 into one of the tiles 432 of the layout design area 404. As shown in FIG. 31, the preview image is moved from the preview window 414 to one of the tiles 432, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 30, which adds the viewer 442 to the layout.

With all of the tiles 432 filled with a viewer (e.g., viewers 436, 438, 440, and 442, respectively), the layout design is complete. The user can cause the configuration area 406 to be removed from the image display area 410, for example, by clicking a close button 444 in the configuration area 406 (see FIG. 31). With the configuration area 406 removed from the image display area 410, the tiles 432 and respective viewers are automatically resized to fill the image display area 410 (see FIG. 32).

As the layout is populated with multiple viewers, the viewers can be linked (e.g., with initial links being built directly through the layout manager 94). The links are rebuilt automatically on the fly every time a new viewer is added to the layout design area 404. In addition, a viewer appearing in the preview window 414 may also be linked to other viewers appearing in the layout design area 404. Examples of types of linking that can be applied to the viewers include reference linking, orientation linking, color map linking, fusion linking, and window level linking. As shown in FIG. 29, the viewers 436, 438, and 440 are linked, i.e., moving a reference line in one of the linked viewers will move the corresponding references lines in the other linked viewers. In one exemplary embodiment, the linking rules are hard coded, but it is contemplated that the linkages could be made adjustable by the user.

The layout can be populated with different viewer types. Linking between the different types of viewers is governed by a set of linking policies. For example, both numerical (e.g., Graph, Table) viewers and image (e.g., MPR, Slab) viewers displaying transverse, sagittal and coronal views can be included in one layout. Linking between numerical viewers and image viewers is done through a data link that passes analytical data from image viewers to numerical viewers.

As shown in FIG. 33, a layout 450 includes a first image viewer as an MPR viewer 452 for non-fused data having PET data as its overlay, and having a transverse orientation. The layout 450 also includes a second image viewer as an MPR viewer 454 for non-fused data having CT data as its underlay, and having a transverse orientation. The layout 450 further includes a first numerical viewer as a Table viewer 456 and a second numerical viewer as a Graph viewer 458, both of which are currently empty.

The MPR viewer 452 and the MPR viewer 454 are linked, such that if the user identifies a region of interest (ROI), such as a lesion, in the MPR viewer 452, the ROI is automatically identified in the other MPR viewer 454, and vice versa. In FIG. 33, the user has selected a first ROI 460 by drawing a circle around it in the MPR viewer 452 and the first ROI 460 has automatically been selected in the MPR viewer 454 due to the linkage between the MPR viewers 452 and 454.

The user can then generate statistics based on the first ROI 460 (e.g., by interacting with the user interface 402 and/or an input or navigation area 408). Both the Table viewer 456 and the Graph viewer 458 are linked with the MPR viewers 452, 454, such that the generated statistics for the first ROI 460 are passed through a data link to the Table viewer 456 and the Graph viewer 458. As a result, a first table corresponding to the first ROI 460 is displayed in the Table viewer 456 and a first graph corresponding to the first ROI 460 is displayed in the Graph viewer 458 (see FIG. 34).

As shown in FIG. 35, the user has selected a second ROI 462 by drawing a circle around it in the MPR viewer 452 and the second ROI 462 has automatically been selected in the MPR viewer 454 due to the linkage between the MPR viewers 452 and 454. The user has then initiated the generation of statistics based on the second ROI 462, with the statistics being passed to the Table viewer 456 and the Graph viewer 458 in accordance with defined linking policies. As a result, a second table corresponding to the second ROI 462 is also displayed in the Table viewer 456 and a second graph corresponding to the second ROI 462 is also displayed in the Graph viewer 458.

The first table and the second table can be distinguished in any manner sufficient to associate the first table and the second table with the first ROI 460 and the second ROI 462, respectively. In one exemplary embodiment, the first table displays a title (e.g., Lesion 1) that corresponds to a title for the first ROI 460, while the second table displays a title (e.g., Lesion 2) that corresponds to a title for the second ROI 462. The first graph and the second graph can be distinguished in any manner sufficient to associate the first graph and the second graph with the first ROI 460 and the second ROI 462, respectively. For example, a size, shape, and/or color of the line and/or data points of the first graph identify its association with the first ROI 460, while a size, shape, and/or color of the line and/or data points of the second graph identify its association with the second ROI 462. In one exemplary embodiment, a color (e.g., orange) of the circle used to select the first ROI 460 corresponds to a color of the first graph, while a color (e.g., blue) of the circle used to select the second ROI 462 corresponds to a color of the second graph.

The layout editor 400 includes internal logic (e.g., software and/or hardware) that generates and manages the user interface 402. The design of the internal logic, according to one exemplary embodiment, is depicted in the class diagram 470 shown in FIG. 36.

In the class diagram 470, a LayoutAccessory class 472 is the entrance class that provides actions for user to activate dynamic layout features. This class 472 provides the following actions:

-   -   “action.nexstar.layout.reset”—This action reverts any         modifications and resets a current layout back to an originally         defined layout. The callback of the action is delegated to a         layout manager (e.g., the layout manager 94) for actual         resetting.     -   “action.nexstar.layout.save”—This action saves any modifications         done to the current layout to a data store (e.g., a disk). The         callback of the action is delegated to the layout manager.     -   “action.nexstar.layout.delete”—This action deletes the layout         permanently. The callback of the action is delegated to the         layout manager, which deletes the layout from memory and further         delegates the call to a layout file manager to delete it from         the data store.     -   “action.nexstar.layout.edit”—This action displays a layout         creator panel with a preview area (e.g., the user interface         402), which initiates layout editing.

In the class diagram 470, a ViewerCreator class 474 provides a user interface panel (e.g., the configuration area 406 having the controls 412 and the preview window 414) on which users can create a viewer by changing the viewer's configuration and series association. As noted above, in one exemplary embodiment, configurable fields include, but are not limited to, Group No. 416, Viewer Type 418, Overlay 420, Underlay 422, Fusion State 424, and Orientation 426 (see FIG. 21). Upon a configuration change, the Viewer Creator class 474 checks if a new viewer needs to be created. If yes, the Viewer Creator class 474 creates a new viewer through the following steps:

-   -   Create an empty viewer.     -   Fetch underlay and overlay data views from an application data         model (described above).     -   Match data views if dimension mismatches exist.     -   Connect data view(s) to the viewer.     -   Create a viewer window for the viewer.     -   Instantiate a Viewer Configuration class, which connects the         viewer with all necessary viewing accessories and interactors.     -   Tile the viewer window into the preview area (e.g., the preview         window 414). The viewer can be added to a designer area (e.g.,         the layout design area 404) by drag-and-dropping the viewer from         the preview area to the designer area. The added viewer can be         put in an empty tile or in a tile where there are already         viewers. If there are viewers in a tile, the newly added viewer         will be tabbed with the other viewers in the same tile. The         layout manager will adopt the viewer automatically. There are         three ways to create a layout:         -   Modify an existing layout but limited to available tiles.             Users can destroy unwanted viewers and add new viewers into             empty tiles, or they can simply add viewers to tiles where             viewers are already in place and then leave them as is or             split the tiles.         -   Create a new tiling arrangement while keeping all viewers.             This approach is useful when some extra viewers need to be             added to an existing layout.         -   Wipe out all viewers and create a new tiling arrangement.

A Monitor Manager class 476 is used to provide screen geometries for each monitor, whether actual or virtual, available for use in the imaging system. The screen geometries are used by the ViewerCreator class 474 to create tiling arrangements for each monitor.

The AppDataModel class 478 corresponds to an application data model, as described above, and is used here to provide data views for preview.

The LayoutManager class 480 plays several roles in layout editing, including:

-   -   It provides a layout selection service so that the ViewerCreator         class 474 can characterize each selected series which is useful         in configuring a viewer.     -   It provides a viewer initialization service so that the         ViewerCreator class 474 can present a viewer with proper initial         presentation states.     -   It adopts viewers that are dropped into the design area. The         adoption process includes the following steps:         -   Retrieve layout information, for example, as described             above. The retrieved layout includes the newly added viewer.         -   Retrieve viewing context as described above.         -   Instantiate a ViewerCfg instance and add it to the layout             definition.         -   Add the new viewer and data view(s) attached to the viewer             into a node map—an instance pool where the protocol engine             obtains all needed components.         -   Rebuild the linkage. First, all link objects are cleaned out             and a partial viewing protocol is created—a link protocol,             based on the layout definition. The protocol engine then             uses this partial protocol to connect all specified             components. This is possible because the protocol engine has             all components needed either already in the node map or             fully specified in the link protocol. Components needed are             viewers, data views, and link objects. Since viewers and             data views are already in the node map, and specifications             for building link objects are fully specified in the link             protocol, building the link protocol is sufficient to             re-establish an entire viewing network. There are two             advantages in using this partial protocol approach: (1) It             is much faster to build and it does not generate unpleasant             screen flashes. (2) Using the protocol engine to execute the             partial protocol to re-establish the viewing network             eliminates the need for linking maintenance.         -   Re-apply the viewing context and the application context. By             re-applying the viewing and application contexts, newly             added viewers appear harmonized with the layout.

The Layout Design Area class 482 models the area where layout display and editing take place (e.g., the layout design area 404). In general, the layout design area is the image display area (e.g., the image display area 410). Layout editing is a modeless process, which means users can start editing and stop editing anytime without having to enter any specialized mode.

The Preview Area class 484 models the place (e.g., the preview window 414) where intermediate steps of the viewer configuration process are previewed and validated before a viewer is committed to the designer area.

In view of the above, the layout editor 400 can readily adopt the look and feel of an imaging system, such as the imaging system 10, which contributes to the ease of use of the layout editor 400. One or more interfaces (e.g., the user interface 402) of the layout editor 400 occupy the same on-screen space as an image display area of the imaging system. Thus, the layout editor 400 can be accessed and used at any time within the imaging system, without having to leave the imaging system, which improves workflow and allows physicians to devote more time on clinical image and analytical information rather than tedious off-line layout design.

The layout editor 400 allows users to interactively create any supported viewer (e.g., Basic2D image viewer, MPR viewer displaying an axial, sagittal, or coronal view of volumetric data, Slab viewer optimized for general slab viewing, volume viewer optimized for volume rendering). Direct feedback is provided for each step in the viewer creation and/or configuration process. As a result, the users do not have to learn or memorize all of the various layout features (or otherwise receive specialized training) since a visual representation of the current viewer configuration is provided (e.g., in the preview window 414). Because the users can readily observe the impact of different viewer configurations on the input image data, the users are more likely to experiment with coming up with different viewers (and, thus, different layouts) than if the users were required to leave the imaging system, tweak a layout design, and then return to the imaging system, over and over again.

The layout editor 400 allows users to interactively modify a size and/or arrangement of the tiles (e.g., tiles 432) forming a layout design. The tiles of a layout can be modified without removing the existing viewers associated with the layout. The viewers can be rearranged among all of the available tiles. By reusing the viewers, users save time in not having to recreate them during layout editing. As with the modification of the viewers, direct feedback is also provided to the user during modification of the tiles.

The layout editor 400 allows users to readily design layouts for multiple monitors, including virtual monitors (e.g., monitors that are not physically available or accessible). For example, for the tiles in a layout design, a first group of the tiles are associated with a first monitor and a second group of the tiles are associated with a second monitor. If only a first monitor is available, the second group of tiles are not displayed or perhaps are resized to be displayed on the first monitor along with the first group of tiles. If a second monitor then becomes available, the second group of tiles can then be displayed on the second monitor.

Also, as noted above, the layout editor 400 automatically links viewers that are added to a layout design (e.g., the layout design area 404) to other viewers in the layout, based on predefined linking policies. As a result, both the layout editing process and overall workflow can be improved.

The above description of specific embodiments has been given by way of example. From the disclosure given, those skilled in the art will not only understand the general inventive concepts and any attendant advantages, but will also find apparent various changes and modifications to the structures and methods disclosed. It is sought, therefore, to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the spirit and scope of the general inventive concepts, as defined by the appended claims, and equivalents thereof. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A medical imaging visualization system for displaying volumetric image data of a patient generated by one or more medical imaging modalities to diagnose or treat a medical condition of the patient, the system comprising: a display; a viewer device for generating an interactive user interface screen on the display, which viewer device enables a user to inspect selected portions of the volumetric image data on the display in an image display area; a layout editor device for generating a layout editor user interface in the interactive user interface screen on the display, which layout editor device enables the user to at least one of create and modify a layout of the image display area on the display; wherein the layout editor user interface comprises: a layout design area displaying a layout of the image display area including one or more tiles, wherein the layout editor device enables the user to configure a placement and a sizing of the tiles in the layout design area, and each one of the tiles is able to accommodate one or more viewers, such that the viewer device enables the user to inspect selected volumetric image data in the image display area as they appear in the layout design area; and a configuration area displayed concurrently with the layout design area in the layout editor user interface, wherein the configuration area comprises a preview window which enables the user to configure a viewer with a current configuration of the viewer as applied to the selected volumetric image data before the configured viewer is associated with one of the tiles in the layout design area.
 2. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the selected volumetric image data is obtained by fusing first image data obtained using a first imaging modality and second image data obtained using a second imaging modality.
 3. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the display includes a first display and a second display, and wherein the layout editor device enables the user to at least one of create and modify the layout of the selected volumetric image data for display on the first display and the second display.
 4. The system as set forth in claim 3, wherein at least one of the first display and the second display is a virtual display.
 5. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein associating the viewer with a tile in the layout design area causes the viewer to be linked with any other viewers associated with the layout based on a predefined linking policy.
 6. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the viewer displayed in the preview window is linked to a viewer in the layout design area.
 7. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the layout editor device enables the user to save the layout to a data store.
 8. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the layout editor device enables real time visualization of modifications made to the layout by the user, including real time display of volumetric image data in the layout design area.
 9. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the selected volumetric image data is real-time image data that is being generated by at least one medical imaging modality at the same time it is displayed in the layout design area.
 10. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the viewer comprises a series of images over time.
 11. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the viewer is a numerical viewer.
 12. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein when the configuration area is removed, the layout of the image display area is resized to fill the image display area on the display.
 13. A layout editor for interfacing with a medical imaging system that generates an interactive user interface screen on a display to allow a user to inspect selected volumetric image data of a patient generated by the medical imaging system to diagnose or treat a medical condition of the patient on the display in an image display area, the layout editor comprising: a layout editor device operable to generate a layout editor user interface in the interactive user interface screen on the display, which layout editor device enables the user to at least one of create and modify a layout of the image display area on the display; wherein the layout editor user interface comprises: a layout design area displaying a layout of the image display area including one or more tiles, wherein the layout editor device enables the user to configure a placement and a sizing of the tiles in the layout design area, and each one of the tiles is able to accommodate one or more viewers, such that the viewer device enables the user to inspect selected volumetric image data in the image display area as they appear in the layout design area; and a configuration area displayed concurrently with the layout design area in the layout editor user interface, wherein the configuration area comprises a preview window which enables the user to configure a viewer with a current configuration of the viewer as applied to the selected volumetric image data before the configured viewer is associated with one of the tiles in the layout design area.
 14. A method for displaying volumetric image data of a patient generated by one or more medical imaging modalities to diagnose or treat a medical condition of the patient, the method comprising: generating an interactive user interface screen on a display to enable a user to inspect selected portions of the volumetric image data on the display in an image display area; generating a layout editor user interface in the user interface screen which includes a layout design area and a configuration area displayed concurrently with the layout design area in the layout editor user interface; creating or modifying a layout of selected image data using the layout editor user interface, wherein the layout comprises one or more tiles appearing in the layout design area and having a placement and a sizing which may be modified, and each one of the tiles is able to accommodate one or more viewers, such that the viewer device enables the user to inspect selected volumetric image data in the image display area as they appear in the layout design area; outputting the selected volumetric image data to the display according to the layout; and generating a preview window in the configuration area which enables the user to configure a viewer with a current configuration of the viewer as applied to the selected volumetric image data, before the configured viewer is associated with one of the tiles in the layout design area, such that the associated tile displays the selected volumetric image data in the layout design area.
 15. The method as set forth in claim 14, wherein the selected volumetric image data is obtained by fusing first image data obtained using a first imaging modality and second image data obtained using a second imaging modality.
 16. The method as set forth in claim 14, wherein the layout is generated on a plurality of displays.
 17. The method as set forth in claim 16, wherein at least one of the displays is a virtual display.
 18. The method as set forth in claim 14, further comprising: moving the viewer from the preview window in the configuration area to the tile in the layout design area to associate the viewer with the layout.
 19. The method as set forth in claim 18, further comprising: linking the viewer with any other viewers associated with the layout based on a predefined linking policy.
 20. The method as set forth in claim 14, further comprising linking a viewer in the preview window with a viewer in the layout design area.
 21. The method as set forth in claim 14, further comprising: saving the layout for later retrieval.
 22. The method as set forth in claim 14, further comprising real time visualization of modifications made to the layout by the user, including real time display of volumetric image data in the layout design area.
 23. The method as set forth in claim 14, wherein the selected volumetric image data is real-time image data that is being generated by at least one medical imaging modality at the same time it is displayed in the layout design area.
 24. The method as set forth in claim 14, wherein the viewer comprises a series of images over time.
 25. The method as set forth in claim 14, wherein the viewer is a numerical viewer. 